The first group of Herald Angel award winners have also been announced. These are awarded to the best of the festivals’ performers, venues and backstage crew who have managed to impress The Herald's distinguished panel of arts critics.

The winners of this week’s Herald Angel awards are Correction (Zoo Venues) and Fake It ‘til You Make It (Traverse Theatre), and a Little Devil was awarded to the artists and producers of the Underbelly Circus Hub for overcoming adversity and, in the true tradition of the festival, demonstrating a 'show must go on' attitude.

The first round of Stage Awards for Acting Excellence have also been announced. These awards were created to recognise outstanding theatre performances by individuals and companies and are celebrating their 21st year at the festival.